Ice-Load Time-Domain Modeling for Arctic Navigation Using an Enhanced Popov Method

This study presents a newly revised icebreaker external dynamics model, in which friction force and restitution coefficient are accounted for. The unification of classical elastic-plastic mechanics and the pressure–area relationship was demonstrated successfully, and a new nonlinear constitutive relationship for ice was obtained in the general theory of plasticity. Moreover, an explicit formula for the restitution coefficient of ship–ice collision was derived using the analytical methods of elastic-plastic mechanics. The external dynamics and internal mechanics were combined using the restitution coefficient, and a new coupling model was established for time-domain simulation of the ship–ice collision process. This study further developed an established Popov method for collision modeling, and a Likhomanov and Kheisin model for contact pressures. Relevant experimental investigations are discussed, because they can be combined with the proposed numerical model. The presented model is able to assess failure modes, related to penetration depth, dissipated energy, ice force, and motion of the ship–ice system in the accidental limit-state condition.